Santa Claus Macarons

Making Santa Claus Macarons is like capturing the spirit of the holiday season in a bite-sized treat! I’ll never forget the first time I attempted these delightful confections. My friends and I had gathered around, ready to create something festive together. The kitchen was filled with laughter, sweet smells, and just enough flour fights to keep everyone on their toes. There’s something magical about transforming simple ingredients into whimsical delights. So grab your apron, and let’s dive into this sweet adventure!

Why you’ll love this recipe

These Santa Claus Macarons are more than just a festive treat; they embody the joy and creativity of the holiday season. With their soft, chewy shells and luscious fillings, they’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Seriously, there’s nothing quite like a homemade macaron—each bite is a mix of textures and flavors that seem to dance on your palate.

Imagine the look on your loved ones’ faces when they unwrap these adorable goodies, each one bringing a little cheer. Plus, you get to play with colors and designs, making them a fantastic canvas for your culinary artistry. These macarons are not just desserts; they’re conversation starters, perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy evenings spent around the fire. So, why not whisk up a batch tonight and let the festive spirit shine?

Gather these ingredients

Let’s break down what you’ll need to create this holiday magic:

• 100 grams Domino® Golden Sugar: This golden sugar adds a caramel-like sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor profile of your macarons. Its slight molasses notes also give that extra holiday flair, don’t you think?

• 4 grams egg white powder (optional, read notes): While not strictly necessary, a touch of egg white powder can offer stability to your shells. It’s an insider tip that can help you achieve that elusive perfect poof!

• 100 grams egg whites: The key player! Whipping those whites into peaks is where the magic begins. Make sure they’re at room temperature for optimal volume.

• 105 grams almond flour: This finely ground flour not only adds a nutty flavor but also contributes to the incredible texture of the macarons. You could substitute hazelnut flour for a unique twist!

• 105 grams Domino® Powdered Sugar: Necessary for sweetness and smoothness, powdered sugar creates that airy texture in your shells.

• 1.5 cups Domino® Powdered Sugar (187 grams): This is actually for your filling—using powdered sugar here produces a soft, fluffy buttercream that contrasts beautifully with the crispy shells.

• 1 tbsp meringue powder: Another secret ingredient! Combined with your egg whites, it strengthens the structure of your meringue.

• 4 tbsp water: It’s time to hydrate your meringue powder, helping it dissolve seamlessly.

• 2 drops black gel food coloring: Just enough to give your Santa a little character without going overboard!

• 1 drop yellow gel food coloring: This adds a pop of warmth to your Santa faces, making them extra cheerful.

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (63 grams): Needed for the cookie buttercream which will lend a delightful soft texture.

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (113 grams): Softened butter is crucial for that luscious, creamy filling. It’s like adding a hug to your treats!

• 1/4 cup Domino® Golden Sugar (50 grams): A little extra sweetness for your buttercream.

• 1 1/4 cup Domino® Powdered Sugar (156 grams): More powdered sugar adds sweetness and fluffiness to your buttercream.

• 1 tsp vanilla extract: Because who can resist that warm, comforting flavor? A staple in any sweet treat!

• 1/8 tsp almond extract: It’s like a secret handshake for discerning palates! A tiny bit goes a long way in enriching flavor.

• 1/2 tbsp milk or heavy cream: This ties everything together, creating a silky consistency for your buttercream.

• 1/4 cup desiccated coconut (50 grams): The final touch! Sprinkle on top for a snowy effect, adding not just flavor but visual appeal.

How this recipe comes together

Ready to roll up your sleeves? Let’s whip up some magic!

1. Making the Macaron Shells: First, you’ll want to combine the almond flour and powdered sugar, sifting them together until they’re as fine as a snowflake. This is crucial for that smooth, silky texture. If you’re using egg white powder, mix it in too!

2. Now, in a separate bowl, whip your egg whites until foamy. Slowly sprinkle in the Domino® Golden Sugar while whipping until you reach stiff peaks. This is the moment when the meringue transforms—a bit like alchemy!

3. Gently fold in your dry ingredients into the meringue with a spatula—take care not to deflate your delicate concoction. The goal here is a “lava-like” consistency, so a few folds to achieve that is the sweet spot.

4. Piping the Shells: Fit a piping bag with a round tip and fill it with your batter. Pipe out the little rounds on a prepared baking tray lined with parchment paper. Give them a little tap on the counter to release any air bubbles. Then let them sit at room temperature for about 30-60 minutes. This step helps form a nice skin that will give your shells those iconic feet!

5. Once they’re dry to the touch, bake them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 15-18 minutes. Let them cool completely before removing them from the parchment.

6. Creating the Royal Icing: Combine your meringue powder with water, beating until it reaches the right consistency to pipe. Decorate your cooled macaron shells to create festive Santa faces!

7. Sugar Cookie Buttercream: Cream together the softened butter and Domino® Golden Sugar until fluffy. Add in the milk, vanilla, almond extract, and gradually mix in that all-purpose flour and remaining powdered sugar. Beat it all until completely combined and perfectly creamy.

8. Filling Those Shells: Pipe your buttercream onto the flat side of half of your macaron shells, then gently sandwich them with the other half.

9. Finish with a sprinkle of desiccated coconut on top of your Santa macarons for that snowy effect. And there you have it—your very own Santa Claus Macarons!

Best way to enjoy it

The beauty of Santa Claus Macarons lies not just in their appearance, but in how they bring people together. Serve these delightful treats on a festive platter, perhaps alongside hot cocoa or a cup of spiced tea—perfect for a cozy gathering. A dash of whipped cream on the side could elevate it even more; imagine a delicious macaron sandwiching a creamy filling alongside a warm drink—bliss!

For a variation, think about adding a side of raspberry or cranberry sauce for a tart contrast and some vibrant color on your platter. Feel free to place them into little gift boxes as presents! Who wouldn’t love a little jar filled with these holiday delights?

Keeping leftovers fresh

After all the holiday cheer, you’ll want to keep those rich flavors intact! Store any leftover macarons in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. For even longer-lasting joy, freeze them for up to three months. Just make sure you layer them between parchment paper in the container – nobody likes a macaron sandwich!

When you’re ready to enjoy them again, allow them to come to room temperature before digging in. That’ll revive those delightful textures and flavors.

Pro chef tips

• Practice makes perfect: Don’t fret if they don’t come out perfect the first time. Even the pros have off days!

• Temperature matters: Make sure your egg whites are at room temperature. Cold ones simply won’t whip up as airy and fluffy.

• Sifting is a must: Trust me; sifting your almond flour and powdered sugar makes a world of difference in the final product.

• Piping techniques: Drawing circles on your parchment as a guideline for piping helps create uniform macarons. Practice makes perfect!

• Experiment with flavors: Substitute flavored extracts or add a little zest from a lemon or orange for a fresh twist.

Creative Twists

Why not customize your Santa Claus Macarons? You could create a winter-themed lineup with peppermint-flavored shells or use gingerbread spices for a cozy twist. The possibilities are endless!

Add some edible glitter for a festive touch or use chocolate for Santa’s belt! You could also play around with the colors—think vibrant greens or reds—and create a whole array of holiday characters using the same recipe.

Want to go nut-free? Try substituting the almond flour with sunflower seed flour or even finely ground oats for a deliciously different take.

Ingredients list

• 100 grams Domino® Golden Sugar
• 4 grams egg white powder (optional, read notes)
• 100 grams egg whites
• 105 grams almond flour
• 105 grams Domino® Powdered Sugar
• 1 1/2 cups Domino® Powdered Sugar (187 grams)
• 1 tbsp meringue powder
• 4 tbsp water
• 2 drops black gel food coloring
• 1 drop yellow gel food coloring
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (63 grams)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (113 grams)
• 1/4 cup Domino® Golden Sugar (50 grams)
• 1 1/4 cup Domino® Powdered Sugar (156 grams)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/8 tsp almond extract
• 1/2 tbsp milk or heavy cream
• 1/4 cup desiccated coconut (shredded (50 grams))

Directions to follow

1. Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Sift Flours: Sift almond flour and powdered sugar together.
3. Whip Egg Whites: Beat egg whites until foamy. Gradually add Domino® Golden Sugar and whip to stiff peaks.
4. Fold Ingredients: Gradually fold dry mixture into the meringue until just combined and "lava-like."
5. Pipe Rounds: Fill a piping bag with the batter and pipe rounds on the prepared sheet.
6. Rest: Let the piped macs sit at room temperature for 30-60 minutes.
7. Bake: Preheat to 300°F (150°C) and bake for 15-18 minutes. Cool completely.
8. Royal Icing: Mix meringue powder and water to create royal icing. Decorate shells.
9. Buttercream Filling: Beat butter and sugars together. Mix in milk, vanilla, and almond extract.
10. Fill Shells: Pipe buttercream onto flat sides of half the shells. Sandwich with remaining shells.
11. Finish: Sprinkle desiccated coconut on top for decoration.

Your questions answered

• Can I use liquid egg whites? Yes, just ensure they’re properly measured, but avoid egg substitutes—real eggs will give the best result.

• How can I adjust my flavorings? Feel free to swap out vanilla for peppermint extract or even chocolate.

• Can I make these ahead of time? Absolutely! Just follow the storage instructions for freezing.

• Why are my macarons cracked? This could be due to too much air in the meringue or underbaking them. Try adjusting your technique or baking time.

• Are macarons gluten-free? Yes, they are gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free powdered sugar and ensure no cross-contamination with gluten-containing products!

These Santa Claus Macarons not only taste divine, but they also bring a bit of cheer into your kitchen and home. Each little creation is infused with love, memories, and the warmth of the season. So why not grab your ingredients, unleash your inner holiday chef, and enjoy the process? I can’t wait to hear how your adventures turn out, so be sure to drop me a note in the comments! Happy baking, friend!

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Santa Claus Macarons

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time Cook Time Rest Time Total Time 75 hrs

Cooking Temp: 300  F Servings: 20 Estimated Cost: $ 10 Calories: 120

Best Season: Winter

Description

Delight in these whimsical Santa Claus Macarons, perfect for the holiday season, with their soft, chewy shells and luscious fillings.

Ingredients

Scale

1/2x 1x 2x 3x

Macaron Shells

• 100 grams Domino® Golden Sugar
• 4 grams egg white powder (optional)
• 100 grams egg whites
• 105 grams almond flour
• 105 grams Domino® Powdered Sugar
• 1.5 cups Domino® Powdered Sugar ((187 grams))
• 1 tbsp meringue powder
• 4 tbsp water
• 2 drops black gel food coloring
• 1 drop yellow gel food coloring

Buttercream Filling

• ¹⁄₂ cup all-purpose flour ((63 grams))
• ¹⁄₂ cup unsalted butter ((113 grams))
• ¹⁄₄ cup Domino® Golden Sugar ((50 grams))
• 1 ¹⁄₄ cup Domino® Powdered Sugar ((156 grams))
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ¹⁄₈ tsp almond extract
• ¹⁄₂ tbsp milk or heavy cream
• ¹⁄₄ cup desiccated coconut ((50 grams))

Instructions

Making the Macaron Shells

1. Prepare the Baking Sheet

   Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
   Mark as complete

2. Sift Flours

   Sift almond flour and powdered sugar together.
   Mark as complete

3. Whip Egg Whites

   Beat egg whites until foamy. Gradually add Domino® Golden Sugar and whip to stiff peaks.
   Mark as complete

4. Fold Ingredients

   Gradually fold dry mixture into the meringue until just combined and 'lava-like'.
   Mark as complete

5. Pipe Rounds

   Fill a piping bag with the batter and pipe rounds on the prepared sheet.
   Mark as complete

6. Rest

   Let the piped macs sit at room temperature for 30-60 minutes.
   Mark as complete

7. Bake

   Preheat to 300°F (150°C) and bake for 15-18 minutes. Cool completely.
   Mark as complete

Creating the Royal Icing

1. Make Royal Icing

   Mix meringue powder and water to create royal icing. Decorate shells.
   Mark as complete

Sugar Cookie Buttercream

1. Prepare Buttercream

   Beat butter and sugars together. Mix in milk, vanilla, and almond extract.
   Mark as complete

2. Fill Shells

   Pipe buttercream onto flat sides of half the shells. Sandwich with remaining shells.
   Mark as complete

Finish

1. Add Coconut

   Sprinkle desiccated coconut on top for decoration.
   Mark as complete

Nutrition Facts

Servings 20

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Amount Per Serving

Calories 120kcal

% Daily Value *

Total Fat 7g11%

Saturated Fat 4g20%

Trans Fat 0g

Cholesterol 10mg4%

Sodium 30mg2%

Potassium 20mg1%

Total Carbohydrate 15g5%

Dietary Fiber 0g

Sugars 12g

Protein 2g4%

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Vitamin A 5 IU

Vitamin C 0 mg

Calcium 20 mg

Iron 0.5 mg

Vitamin D 0 IU

Vitamin E 0.2 IU

Vitamin K 0 mcg

Thiamin 0 mg

Riboflavin 0.1 mg

Niacin 0.1 mg

Vitamin B6 0 mg

Folate 1 mcg

Vitamin B12 0 mcg

Biotin 0 mcg

Pantothenic Acid 0 mg

Phosphorus 10 mg

Iodine 0 mcg

Magnesium 5 mg

Zinc 0 mg

Selenium 1 mcg

Copper 0 mg

Manganese 0 mg

Chromium 0 mcg

Molybdenum 0 mcg

Chloride 0 mg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

These Santa Claus Macarons make perfect gifts. Store leftovers in an airtight container.

Keywords: macarons, Santa Claus, holiday, dessert, festive, baking